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Dental Sealants
| A sealant is a clear or tinted plastic protective coating that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth the areas where most cavities form.
Molars and premolars have grooves and crevices. Food can get stuck in these crevices. Some crevices are so deep that the bristles of a toothbrush can't reach into them. Pits and fissures provide the perfect environment for bacteria to grow and cause cavities. Sealants help to prevent this from happening. They cover the grooves and crevices so that food cannot get into them.
Sealants most commonly are applied to children's teeth to help prevent cavities.
Not only are sealants very effective, they cost a lot less than filling cavities.
If your child is at high risk of cavities, your dentist may decide to seal your child's premolars, or bicuspids, as well. The premolars are the teeth directly in front of the molars.
Sealants sometimes are used in adults who are at increased risk of developing cavities. Your dentist can recommend whether this procedure is appropriate for you.
Applying sealants is a quick, painless procedure that can be done during a routine dental visit. No injections are needed. However, it is very important that the child sit still during the treatment so the tooth or teeth being worked on will stay dry. This allows the sealant material to adhere properly to the tooth. | | Send this story to a friend | Printer Friendly |
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